​When schools, centres and libraries limited access to computers in response to the pandemic, countless students, Canadian newcomers and people facing poverty were immediately disconnected from the online world. ​The pandemic revealed and exacerbated the deep digital divide between those with reliable access to technology and those without, who will struggle to keep learning, working and participating in the world around us. While the world continues to reopen the demand is still great for equitable access to technology.

HOW DOES IT WORK
As a Future of Good Top 100 Recovery Project helping Canada build back better, re//BUILD.IT Community program collects desktops and laptops in good condition, refurbishes them, and donates these essential devices to students, Indigenous communities and people facing poverty across southwestern Ontario. re//BUILD.IT Community is also reducing the environmental impact of electronic waste in the most effective way by extending the life of computers.

We couldn't offer this program without generous technology donations from the community and local businesses and there is a current high demand for used laptop computers.  With up to 20 people waiting at anytime, we are always in need of desktop and laptop computer donations in good condition. Note that we can also accept donations of new approved computer equipment and a charitable tax receipt can be issued.  If you have gently used Laptops or PCs and Monitors that you can spare please connect today to arrange a drop off at info@steameducation.ca or call 226-546-2562.

​Please note regarding data destruction, we use the services of a Certified Information Systems Security Professional to wipe the hard drive of every computer received, but unfortunately cannot provide a certificate of destruction. ​

If you or someone you know is in need of a computer, fill out the application in the link below. Once received, a member of the STEAM Team will contact the applicant to assess specific needs and eligibility for the program. If the applicant qualifies for the program, we'll contact the recipient when a computer is ready to be picked up and provide a location. Note due to volume of requests applicants may be placed on a waiting list and there is a limit of one computer per household. 

Apply as an agency assisting someone in need of a computer

Apply as an Individual in need of a computer

¿Hablas español? Para conectarte con un miembro de nuestro equipo de idioma español, por favor mande un correo a info@steameducation.ca. 

Did you know the average I.T. Company changes computer equipment every 3-5 years?
​Take the Technology Pledge today and join other amazing local companies like Century Sound and the Elgin Innovation Centre pledging they will donate their computers to our program on their next company change out. Show us your commitment to digital equity and assisting the environment by signing up here.

Take the Pledge Today

Check out the video below from Fanshawe College students, Atrus, Austin and Parker with former executive director Jessica Gransaull to learn more about the re//BUILD.IT Community computer donation program.

 Need help finding affordable internet? 
The Government of Canada's Connecting Families initiative is investing $13.2 million over five years to help bridge the digital divide for Canadian families who may struggle to afford access to home Internet. With this funding, they have developed a secure online portal that will enable eligible Canadian families to access high speed Internet service packages for $10 per month from participating Internet Service Providers.

re//BUILD.IT Community began with generous funding from the Government of Canada / United Way Elgin Middlesex, Elgin Business Resource Centre, Green Lane Community Trust, County of Elgin, and Kinsmen Club of St. Thomas and continues to be supported by amazing organizations like Libro Credit Union, Entegrus Inc, iA Financial and NCR Global.